New hospital apprentice scheme opens

Fifty new apprentices can now apply for a new apprenticeship scheme at the University Hospitals of Morecambe Bay NHS Foundation Trust.

The trust is seeking 50 apprentices to work at the Royal Lancaster Infirmary and Furness General Hospital in Barrow.

They will study a Level 3 diploma over two years at partner organisations, Lancaster and Morecambe College and Furness College, with a guaranteed job at the end.

Amanda O’Brien, who is leading the project, said the apprentices will work in clinical wards for four days a week and the other spent studying at college.

Those who do not want to go on to full degrees but successfully complete the two-year course will be guaranteed a clinical support worker job at the trust.

“We are holding two interview days in November, which will involve the colleges and senior nursing staff,” she said.

“We are looking for candidates that share our values and that will help us to bring fresh talent to our workforce.

“We will be holding interviews with a group assessment in the morning including a work scenario and questions on our visions and values.

“Those who make the cut will go on to full, formal panel interviews in the afternoon.”

She said the successful apprentices, who will join the trust in February, will be mentored by newly-qualified registered nurses as part of their preceptorships and will gain experience throughout the hospital with four six-month placements in different areas.

The role will include key aspects of patient care – washing, feeding, assessing and supporting mobility – and will replace the highly-successful cadet programme.

Cadets have also been invited to apply.

The jobs can be viewed here: http://jobs.uhmb.nhs.uk/job/v334115 and http://jobs.uhmb.nhs.uk/job/v334191.